Everton have now announced that Manchester City target Jarrad Branthwaite has signed a new contract at Goodison Park.
The Toffees revealed the news on their official website earlier on Friday.
So, what is the situation involving Manchester City and Jarrad Branthwaite? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well, it was the Daily Mail who claimed that Manchester City – and also Manchester United – were considering a move for the Everton No.32 as he entered the final 24 months of his contract.
Now – however – Branthwaite has put pen to paper on a new deal running until June 2027, after he impressed in his five Premier League starts so far this season.
Speaking about his decision, the 21-year-old said: “The stature of the club, how much of a family it is at Everton and how I just love playing here in front of the fans were key reasons for me signing. To sign this new contract was to show the commitment I have for the club and show how much it means to me to play for Everton.”
Branthwaite is one of the most promising central defenders in Europe, and showed his quality over the summer by helping the England Under-21 side win the Under-21 European Championship.
Manchester City won’t mind Jarrad Branthwaite staying at Everton
While some might frame this as a blow for Manchester City, it is probably for the best.
Pep Guardiola already has the likes of Josko Gvardiol, Ruben Dias, John Stones, Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake to play in the centre of defence.
Kyle Walker and Rodri can also operate there if need be.
Therefore – had Branthwaite arrived in January or the summer of 2024 – his chances of playing time would have been slim given the competition ahead of him.
Staying at Everton – where he is likely to play every week between now and his contract ending in 2027 – will do wonders for his development.
Given the financial strength of Manchester City and also the club’s pulling power, there is no reason why Branthwaite cannot still be lured away in a few years, when some of Guardiola’s existing options may have started to decline with age.
